Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS, CREDENTIALS: Must be a licensed therapist who is a graduate of an accredited school. Previous experience in a hospital or long-term care facility is preferred.

RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Rehabilitation Services

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The employee must be able to perform each essential function effectively to be successful in this position.

1. Assures that Speech Language Pathology (SLP) services facilitate optimal patient outcomes and comply with the MDS procedures.
2. Provides therapy to residents under specific medical orders and in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Care Plan Team. 
3. Assesses facility residents for speech/language needs at admission or when indicated to provide appropriate services.
4. Coordinates admission/discharge to speech therapy with the Interdisciplinary Team, Restorative Care Nurse and staff nurses. 
5. Writes a discharge plan summarizing status at discharge, with instructions for the resident and family.
6. Assures the periodic review and revision of the SLP treatment plan when appropriate.
7. Communicates a resident's functional status and needs to the resident, caregivers, and other appropriate professionals.
8. Maintains good working relationships with other healthcare professionals and referral sources.
9. Performs SLP services and communicates sufficient information about the treatment plan to nursing and other personnel to assure a team approach.
10. Documents therapy services and writes progress notes in a timely manner.
11. Helps select therapy staff for the facility, in consultation with the Director of Rehabilitation Services.
12. Orients new therapy personnel and provides on-going inservice training for therapy assistants. 
13. Disciplines therapy staff when necessary and participates in scheduled performance appraisals. 
14. Recommends appropriate staff recognition and facilitates retention programs and objectives.
15. Submits billing, payroll, and expense documentation in an accurate and timely manner.
16. Cooperates with the Restorative Care Coordinator to promote efficient and timely delivery of services.
17. Collaborates with the Director of Rehabilitation Services as requested to review therapy operations. 
18. Attends weekly rehabilitation meetings to discuss treatments and promote team approach
19. Participates in Quality Assurance reviews of therapy practices and trends and submits reports requested. 
20. Assists in the collection and analysis of data to help prepare reports about therapy services.
21. Understands the fiscal planning and management of therapy services such as: use of budget; profit and loss of therapy services, optimal use of resources; a plan for audit control; a fee schedule consistent with costs of services
22. Promotes compliance with Resident Rights and confidentiality, infection control requirements, standards of environmental cleanliness, and safety rules.
23. Evaluates outpatients referred by a state-approved referral source and notifies billing upon treatment.
24. If needed, occasionally travels to other locations to provide Speech Therapy coverage during changes in demand or service delivery.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Must have a valid Indiana Operator's license and be able to travel occasionally to other locations if needed to provide therapy coverage. Is able to work overtime, nights, weekends, and holidays if required to assure services. .

WORKING CONDITIONS
Works in climate-controlled and well-lighted environments with smoke-free policies. Works in therapy area and throughout the building daily. Is continuously subject to interruptions, noise, and odors daily. Has a moderate risk of exposure to infections, but receives training in handwashing practices and has access to personal protective equipment to reduce risk. May be required to lift and transfer residents, but receives lifting training and has access to safety devices and equipment to reduce the risk of injury.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands below are typical of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for individuals with disabilities.

Lifting/Carrying 1-10 lbs.
Continuously - (61-100%)

Lifting/Carrying 11-25 lbs.
Frequently - (31-60%)

Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs.
Frequently - (31-60%)

Pushing/Pulling 20-50 lbs.
Frequently - (31-60%

Pushing/Pulling Over 50 lbs.
Frequently - (31-60%) 

Climbing/Balancing
Frequently - (31-60%)

Stooping/Bending
Continuously - (61-100%)

Standing/Sitting
Continuously - (61-100%)

Walking
Continuously - (61-100%)

Reaching
Continuously - (61-100%) 

Travel
Frequently - (31-60%)